PS3 Still on Target For Spring 2006

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Sony claims no PS3 launch change, but admits possible delay.

By Anoop Ganayat

Sony Computer Entertainment has reaffirmed its aim to release the PlayStation 3 in spring. However, it has also admitted that some areas of the system's specifications have yet to be finalized, and if finalization is delayed, the system's launch could be pushed back.

SCE's comments are in response to a recent report from Merrill Lynch Japan. According to Reuters, a Merrill Lynch analyst claimed in a report dated the 16th that many hardware and software companies have mentioned a possible delay for the PS3 to some time between fall and the end of the year. As reasons for the delay, the report mentioned a holdup in production of the system's video chip, problems with heat generation from the PS3 hardware and incomplete software content. However, the report also noted that Sony hadn't issued an official statement on the matter, and that Merrill Lynch would continue with the assumption of a Japanese release by May 31, the last official day of spring 2006.

A Sony public relations representative didn't specifically deny the report, stating to Reuters, "We cannot comment on analyst reports. At the present, we're aiming for a spring 2006 launch, just as planned." Reuters points out that Sony's comments did not specify a territory.

While sticking to its guns regarding a spring launch, the SCE PR agent admitted, "If we cannot finalize the specifications, we cannot release the PS3," adding, "We're currently waiting until the last minute for the specifications to be finalized." Asked what would happen in the case of a delay in finalizing the specifications, the Sony rep said, "We'd end up selecting the best time and releasing it. However, we cannot comment yet."